But first, what is BTRFS? Btrfs is a new copy on write file system for Linux aimed at implementing advanced features while focusing on fault tolerance, repair and easy administration. Initially developed by Oracle, Btrfs is licensed under the GPL and open for contribution from anyone. BTRFS is still under heavy development. A lot more on BTRFS, here.

It seems (according to Scott) that BTRFS has a 20% chance to make it into Ubuntu 10.10 Maverick Meerkat, these being the decisive factors:

btrfs would need to not be marked “experimental” in the kernel config; this is planned for 2.6.35, which is the kernel version to shipped in Maverick (most probably).

btrfs is not currently supported by GRUB2 or the installer; these pieces would need to be finished before Feature Freeze.

If that happens, BTRFS might be made default for Alpha releases to gain testing; that testing must go smoothly.

Both the BTRFS and Ubuntu developers must be comfortable with the idea

It’s a tough gauntlet, and it would only made with the knowledge that production servers and desktops can be run on Lucid as a fully supported version of Ubuntu at the same time. I’d give it a 1-in-5 chance.

-Scott James Remnant

This really seems like something to keep an eye on. We'll keep you posted of its progress.